The carnivals are said to be one of the most well-known features of Tenerife, said to be the next best after Rio de Janeiro . All the islanders gather together at these annual festivities in a mass outburst of collective gaiety. The main celebrations take place in Santa Cruz de Tenerife , in the areas near the port where people dance to the sound of salsa music played by the best groups in the island. It is also during this time that residents show off in their best finery for both neighbors and visitors to see.
The festivities start in the morning and continue until the early hours of the following day. There is always plenty of food and drink around to aid the festivities. If you really want to see the community pulling together you really should come to Santa Cruz de Tenerife during these festival times.